In a major first for one of Australia’s most enduring rock bands, the Hoodoo Gurus will perform alongside the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for a one-night-only event at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Thursday 29 January 2026.
Titled Symphonic Gurus: Hoodoo Gurus x MSO, the concert will see the band’s biggest hits — including What’s My Scene, Like Wow – Wipeout! and 1000 Miles Away — reimagined with sweeping orchestral arrangements.
Lead singer and songwriter Dave Faulkner described the event as a career highlight. “I can’t believe this is actually happening,” he said. “I have been a lifelong fan of classical music and a regular opera goer, so this is the fulfilment of a dream for me.”
Faulkner will be joined by bandmates Rick Grossman, Nik Reith and Brad Shepherd, with the MSO conducted by Nicholas Buc. Composer Alex Turley has created 20 new orchestral arrangements, expanding on his work from the Gurus’ performance with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra in 2024.
“Together with Alex, we’ve chosen a very diverse set of songs that I think will both surprise and delight listeners,” Faulkner said. “If I had to use one word to describe the results I think ‘cinematic’ comes closest. The Gurus and the MSO will be taking listeners on quite a journey, and I can’t wait. It’s going to be a very special night indeed.”
Since forming in 1981, the Hoodoo Gurus have defined Australian rock with their blend of wit, melody and punchy guitar riffs. Now, paired with the grandeur of a full orchestra, their catalogue will take on a whole new dimension — a meeting of rock and symphony under the summer sky.
Tickets go on sale 10am Friday 24 October via mso.com.au.
